IWMI, IFPRI Urge Farmers to Adopt Solar-Powered Irrigation Technology

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) have urged farmers to embrace environmentally friendly irrigation technologies to boost agricultural productivity and sustainability.

The call was made during a Demand-Supply Linkage Workshop and Field Demonstrations on Solar-Based Irrigation Systems held at the Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology in Wudil, Kano State.

Speaking at the event, an IWMI representative, Engr. Dr. Adebayo Oke, said the institute, in collaboration with other stakeholders, had been working to promote solar-powered irrigation solutions aimed at improving farming practices.

Oke said the initiative was designed to encourage farmers to adopt solar-powered technologies for irrigation, thereby reducing dependence on conventional energy sources and enhancing agricultural efficiency.

“We are trying to ensure that farmers make use of solar-powered farming techniques that are environmentally friendly and cost-effective,” he said.

Also speaking, the Country Director of International Food Policy Research Institute, Dr. Oliver Kiptoo Kirui, said the workshop was organised to promote the sustainability of smallholder farmers through the adoption of innovative solar-based irrigation solutions.

Kirui said the programme provided a platform for linking technology providers, researchers, policymakers and farmers to facilitate the widespread adoption of modern irrigation systems.

According to him, the initiative is expected to enhance food production, improve water-use efficiency and strengthen the resilience of farming communities against climate-related challenges.

The workshop featured presentations, stakeholder engagements and field demonstrations of solar-powered irrigation technologies aimed at showcasing their benefits and practical applications for farmers.

Participants included farmers, agricultural experts, researchers, development partners and government officials drawn from across the country.